Government announces expanded Talent List to attract more high-quality talent
*****************************************************************************
The 2022 Policy Address announced that the Government would update the List to reflect the latest shortage of professional and technical talent spanning different fields. The Labour and Welfare Bureau and relevant bureaux and departments commenced the relevant work immediately and consulted stakeholders of industry organisations of various sectors, major business chambers and the Human Resources Planning Commission in order to update the professions covered under the List.
The updated List (in Annex) comprises 51 professions under nine industry segments, namely business support; creative industries, arts and culture, performing arts; development and construction; environmental technology services; financial services; healthcare services; innovation and technology; legal and dispute resolution services; and maritime services.
A Government spokesman said, "The main thrust of our manpower policy is nurturing local talent, complemented by attracting outside talent, with a view to enriching the talent pool of Hong Kong and meeting our social and economic development needs. The expanded List helps us attract more high-quality talent supporting the high-quality economic and social development of Hong Kong."
The updated List, detailed specifications of individual professions and the guidance note for applying under the admission schemes have been uploaded to the dedicated website (www.talentlist.gov.hk) and the online platform of Hong Kong Talent Engage (www.hkengage.gov.hk). Those interested in submitting applications for the admission schemes can visit the electronic application platform of the Immigration Department (www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/index.html#tab_b_1) and submit their online applications directly.
The Government drew up the first List with 11 professions in 2018, with a view to attracting high-quality talent in an effective and focused manner to support Hong Kong's development into a high value-added and diversified economy. Upon a review in 2021, the List was expanded to cover 13 professions. Under the QMAS, eligible applicants who meet the requirements of respective professions on the List will be awarded 30 bonus points under the General Points Test to stand a much better chance of approval. Starting from December 28, 2022, employers recruiting talent under the GEP and the ASMTP to fill vacancies falling under the professions on the List are not required to provide proof to substantiate their difficulties in local recruitment when making applications, thus shortening the time for employers to recruit outside talent.
Ends/Tuesday, May 16, 2023
Issued at HKT 16:30
Issued at HKT 16:30
NNNN